I am glad to learn that Loktak Development Authority, under the chairmanship of Shri Moirangthem Asnikumar Singh, in coordination with local elected MLAs and community organisations is moving ahead with community participation, research and sustainability as sacred principles to guide LDA’s conservation activities.

Loktak lake is the soul of Manipur, an ecological wonder and home to the much-revered Sangai, the brow antlered deer. Loktak lake has always played a vital role in the ecological and economic security of the region and the preservation of our cultural and traditional values. It is the cradle of Manipur civilization and a giver of life that sustain the livelihood of thousands of people in the State.

The stunning natural beauty of the lake provides some of the most spectacular scenery on earth. However, this beauty is on the brink of getting lost. A collective effort is the need of the hour if we have to save our ‘Ima’. Without the support of the masses, any conservation and preservation efforts of Loktak lake are just futile exercise. The State Government is also taking all efforts for better conservation and management of the lake in consultation with international experts.

I am confident that LDA, under the direction of the Chairman, will fulfil the mandate of conservation and sustainable management of Loktak Lake and its associate wetlands (Khoidum-Pumlen, Eko-Kharung). I extend my best wishes to the LDA team in all its endeavours to save the lake.

First, I would like to thank CM Shri N Biren Singh ji and LDA officials for their support and the opportunity to serve as the Chairman of Loktak Development Authority (LDA).

Loktak Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country and a lifeline of Manipur. Encompassing an area of about 26,000 hectares and being the State’s fishery resource, the lake is not just a source of livelihood but a Goddess (Lairembi) to the people of Manipur and a Mother (Ima) to the fisherman community. It is the cradle of Manipuri civilization and culture.

We are the generation facing the ramifications of unsustainable modernising projects started by those before us and the challenge of protecting the rich biodiversity, long-held traditions, and the lake itself. The decisions of stakeholders of the past set in motion the fall of the lake’s ecosystem and the quality of life of the people that depend on it for sustenance.

As aware and responsible stakeholders, we are responsible for protecting such fragile and complex ecosystems as Loktak Lake. Every successful change requires more extensive and sustained mobilization, but it cannot grow by itself.

As the Chairman of LDA, I appealed to all the stakeholders, particularly the local elected representatives for their valuable support while carrying out the conservation and sustainable measures for preserving the Loktak Lake and its associated wetlands.

I also call upon the people of the State to take a pledge to contribute in concrete, meaningful efforts to save the Loktak Lake, a God-ordained treasure whose immense value we have often ignored, an opulence we should strive to keep alive.

Loktak is more than just a freshwater lake, a picturesque mass of water. It also is a home, a goddess, and a giver of life. No wonder it is often described as the lifeline of Manipur.

We have reached a point in our history where we cannot take a back seat and let others decide on the fate of Loktak Lake. The lake has undergone massive changes in the last three-four decades and is under extreme pressure from anthropogenic activities in and around the lake. At present, the lake is under threat from various elements such as encroachment, pollution, adverse conditions due to changes in water levels, and various developmental activities around the lake.

The core definition of sustainable development is a development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. But often, the economic benefits of the present are overestimated than the environmental and social costs.

I am glad that LDA is moving forward with sustainable development as a ‘mantra,’ and ‘WISE use’ as a guiding principle. At the same time, we need to listen to and acknowledge the concerns of people whose sustenance depends on the lake and other stakeholders.

I say this with a strong sense of hope and optimism that only together can we carry out the work of conservation and management of Loktak Lake and its associated wetlands.